Conceptualizing Hyperlocal Information Systems for Developing Countries

Abstract

Hyperlocal information systems cater to the needs of the people in a well-defined geographical area. Such information systems are ubiquitously accessible to the users in the developed world through their mobile phones. In developing countries hyperlocal information is valued, but often dispersed, constantly evolving, and poorly accessible. Additionally, most of the social information systems in developing countries are adopted from the developed world, and often fail to take into consideration local socio-geographical settings and cultural complexities. As a result, there is a strong reliance on word of mouth through known and unknown networks. In this paper, we present foundational insights on user needs, behaviors and motivations for the design of hyperlocal information systems in developing countries based on a multi-year, multi-method research study with around 5000 participants in three such countries - India, Indonesia and Nigeria. We also discuss how the complexity of real-world sociocultural phenomena and heterogeneity of neighborhoods impact hyperlocal information, which can further inform design of such systems in the future.